THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
NEW DELHI,
JANUARY 26, 2026
The 77th Republic Day celebrations at
Kartavya Path in New Delhi unfolded as a powerful showcase of India’s evolving
military doctrine, blending tradition with transformation and underscoring the
nation’s resolve to build a future-ready, self-reliant defence force. In a
stirring display of operational readiness and indigenous innovation, the Indian
Army presented new combat formations and cutting-edge weapon systems that
reflected the changing character of warfare and India’s preparedness to meet
emerging challenges.
Stealing the spotlight was the Bhairav
light commando battalion, which made its first public appearance since being
raised in October 2025. The 4 BHAIRAV Battalion of the Sikh Light Infantry
Regiment has been conceived to bridge the critical operational gap between
conventional infantry units and special forces. Designed for swift, agile and
high-intensity combat missions, the Bhairav battalion symbolises the Army’s
shift towards flexible, mission-oriented formations capable of rapid deployment
across diverse terrains and threat environments.
Equally significant was the debut of
the Universal Rocket Launcher System ‘Suryastra’, India’s first indigenous
universal multi-calibre long-range rocket launcher. Engineered to deliver
precision surface-to-surface strikes at extended ranges of 150 kilometres and
300 kilometres, Suryastra marks a major leap in the modernisation of India’s
rocket artillery. Unlike traditional platforms, it is designed as a universal
launcher capable of integrating multiple rocket and missile variants on a
single platform, offering unmatched operational flexibility and adaptability in
complex combat scenarios. Its induction highlights the growing strength of
indigenous defence manufacturing and India’s focus on long-range precision
firepower.
Adding to the operational theme of the
parade was the maiden appearance of a mixed scouts contingent in heavy thermal
combat gear. Led by Lieutenant Amit Choudhary of the 2 Arunachal Scouts, the
contingent symbolised India’s elite infantry units specialising in
high-altitude surveillance and frontier reconnaissance, reinforcing the Army’s
unwavering vigil along the nation’s most challenging borders.
For the first time, the mounted
contingent of the 61 Cavalry appeared in full battle gear, departing from its traditional
ceremonial attire. Along with key Army assets and indigenous platforms, it
advanced down Kartavya Path in a phased battle array formation. This innovative
concept replicated real battlefield movement, with reconnaissance elements
leading, followed by logistics units and combat platforms accompanied by
personnel in operational gear, bringing the realities of modern warfare to the
ceremonial boulevard.
The celebrations commenced with a
vibrant cultural performance by 100 artists, setting the tone around the theme
“Vishwaguru Bharat – Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat”. President Droupadi Murmu
presided over the historic occasion, unfurling the Tricolour and leading the
nation in homage. The playing of the National Anthem and a thunderous 21-gun
salute fired from indigenous 105-mm Light Field Guns echoed India’s pride and
self-reliance.
European Council President Antonio
Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen witnessed the
grand parade as Chief Guests, lending global significance to the celebrations.
Together, the displays on Kartavya Path sent a clear message: India stands
united, confident and resolute, marching forward with indigenous strength,
modern strategy and unshakeable patriotism.
